Aryna Sabalenka Makes Comeback at WTA Washington Open After Shoulder Injury

Two-time reigning Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka is set to return to competitive tennis at this week’s WTA Washington Open, following a month-long hiatus to recover from a shoulder injury. The world No. 3 has been sidelined since early July and is keen to regain her form ahead of the US Open, which starts on August 26.

Sabalenka, who reached the US Open final last year, was unable to compete in the Paris Olympics due to Belarus’s exclusion from the Games. She is eager to rebuild her confidence and performance levels before the season’s final Grand Slam.

“Taking a break was crucial for me,” Sabalenka noted. “I’ve struggled since March, and this time off has allowed me to refresh both mentally and physically.”

The Belarusian’s last competitive appearance was at Berlin in June, where she had to retire from a quarter-final match due to her shoulder injury. She also withdrew from Wimbledon, where she had previously advanced to the semi-finals.

“I made a tough decision to withdraw from tournaments for the first time in my career due to injury,” Sabalenka said. “The rehab was intense, but I believe it has prepared me well for the challenges ahead.”

Training in hot and humid conditions in Florida has helped Sabalenka acclimate to the climate in Washington. She is focused on regaining peak performance and aims to make a strong showing at the US Open.